How you can help Northampton hospice charity raise vital finds this Christmas

A Northampton-based hospice charity has launched a series of fundraising campaigns to raise vital funds this Christmas.

Cynthia Spencer Hospice, which offers support to people suffering with life limiting illnesses and their loved ones, has organised a range of different virtual and Covid safe events as fundraising this year is as important as ever.

From buying a specially put together recipe book, to taking part in a fun run or a wreath making class, there is plenty for everyone to get involved in.

John Helm, fundraising manager at the hospice said: "This Christmas we understand that families will want to have as special a time as they possibly can so we have designed fundraising ideas that spread plenty of festive spirit while raising a bit of money for our patients.

"Ideas this year include a competition for the best outdoor decorations, virtual wreath making classes and a virtual Christmas card to help send festive greetings to family members, each message sent with a donation to bring extra cheer to the hospice too.

"We’d love to see as many people as possible getting involved and knowing that small contributions go a long way when many members of the community come together to support a cause that’s at the heart of our community."

Below are a number of ways you can help the charity raise money this Christmas.

Virtual wreath making classes hosted by Jack Haddon Florists

Each person will get a full wreath making kit delivered to their home, as long as it is within seven miles of the Kettering Road hospice.

Available as a live interactive group booking for a minimum of five people and maximum of 12 or as a pre-recorded video link, participants will then be taught how to construct the wreath.

The class costs £50 per person and includes the kit.

Contact [email protected] for more information.

Christmas hamper raffle

Hampers will be filled with festive treats donated to the charity by supporters.

Priced at £1, supporters are then asked to sell as many tickets as they can.

If you are able to donate any contents or want to sell tickets, contact [email protected].

Recipe book

The book consists of recipes from the community and includes something for all the family.

Costing £6, 100 percent of the sale will go to the charity as the books were made for free.

Contact [email protected] to order now.

Wear it festive

Even if you and all your work colleagues are working from home, a festive dress up day can still happen. It might even brighten up that dull, two hour Zoom call.

Schools, communities and companies who are still operating on site are also encouraged to get involved in the traditional fundraiser.

Contact [email protected] for ideas on how to make the event safe this year.

Virtual share a card

Share Christmas messages with community groups, schools, colleagues or friends by setting up one of the charity's virtual cards.

With several festive backgrounds to choose from, including a Santa present drop, this is a good way to spread joy and donate to the charity at the same time.

Contact [email protected] for more information.

Santa virtual fun run

The fun run usually takes place every December with keen runners all dressing up as Santa.

This year, the run will continue for people wanting to raise money for Cynthia Spencer and a number of other local charities, however it will be virtual.

Runners can take part safely and in their own time between December 6 and 13.

Find out more here.

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